Ronald Lee Cronen husband, father, son, brother, friend, family man, and so much more embarked upon his greatest journey on Thursday the 29th of December, 2016.  He is survived by his adoring wife, Vanessa, his five sons: Matthew, Patrick, Luke, Jacob, and Joseph, one daughter: Madelynn, five brothers: Jerry, Michael, Robert, John and Paul, two sisters: Linda and Colleen, five grandchildren: Felicity, Ashton, Gianna, Jenna and Carolyn, as well as a wealth of other family and friends.

Ron was born and raised on the family farm in Kandiyohi, Minnesota. As the second child of eight, he was an active member of his family farm. His work ethic served him well throughout his life. This was true whether he was working his way through school, serving in the military, running hospitals, or raising a family. Ron graduated, cum laude, from Mankato State University in 1970 with a Bachelor's Degree in International Relations.  He then served in the U.S. Army from 1970 to 1972 as a Finance Specialist.  Afterwards, he pursued his Master's in Healthcare Administration at Georgia State University in Atlanta, graduating summa cum laude in 1979.  He was a member of the American College of Healthcare Executives.

These years of training and experience served Ron well during his professional life. He successfully started and operated numerous clinics and hospitals that specialized in behavioral/psychological health, long term acute care, chiropractic care, children's sub-acute care, long term care, and numerous other areas of specialization in healthcare administration. Whether it was in his native state of Minnesota, or his adopted home of Texas, and all points in between, he never failed to encourage the people he worked with and better the places he worked.  Ron was also a small business owner and entrepreneur who ran a hotel, farms, and invested in several start up companies.  Perhaps his most enduring professional accomplishment was the many people he mentored in the variety of professions he was active in.

Ron was a pilgrim in this life in the truest sense of the word. His vibrant Catholic faith and insatiable curiosity were the primary engines which drove the life which he shared with us. He exemplified living his faith by actively participating in numerous service organizations, including the Knight's of Columbus, and never wavering in his responsibility of raising his children in the faith and attending Mass even as he struggled with his body.

His desire to live life to the fullest had he and Vanessa travelling as much of the world as possible. His journey spanned across all 50 states, several oceans, and many countries. He was always open to new experiences and loved wandering the world with his wife. While he enjoyed the adventures, he also loved to sample the food and spirits of the many different cultures. He could frequently be found, both home and abroad, enjoying a glass of fine wine or liquor. His love of life and optimism continued all the way up to his last days; always hoping he would be able to take one more trip before he left us.

Without a doubt, Ron was a sports fan. He was first a Vikings fan, then a Texans fan when it came to the NFL.  Football and basketball topped the list of his favorites, but Ron could parley with the most ardent fan about almost any sport.  He could also, in the same breath, delve into the deep reaches of government, finance, history, art, and a whole host of other topics.  Ron was, of course, a brilliant and engaging conversationalist.  And what made him most endearing was that he included anyone who was interested.

It was Ron's love of his family that truly showed his spirit. He received great satisfaction in being able to provide amply for the family. Even though he was often travelling during the week, when the weekend arrived he actively attended the many extracurricular activities of the kids. He could often be seen pacing the sidelines yelling encouragement. His love of family was exemplified by his enjoyment of the diversity and energy that came from being a part of a large family. He never wavered in his love for his children and was exceptionally proud when all of his kids completed their college degrees. Ron embodied the adage, "work hard, play hard." And those who knew him, cannot dispute this truth.

Like the fertile and patient prairie soil which was the literal foundation of Ron's life, his quiet power and unwavering devotion brought forth so much in this life. Yet, it is this wealth which Ron transformed into a blessing for each and every one of us who had the privilege of knowing and loving Ron in some way or another. The world is a richer place for having Ron in it.

While Ron has passed away, he has not left us. Whether it is the many charities he supported through his donations of time, talent, and treasure, or the memories of holidays and family gatherings that always brought a warm and welcoming smile to his face, Ron's memory endures.  The same light that shone from Ron's eyes, the laughter that accompanied him, and the sharp mind and keen wit which was always present are alive in his children and grandchildren.  Ron is not gone…he has only gone ahead.